The event "The Interconnection between Water Resilience and Nature Protection," held on 27 June 2024, as part of the official EU Green Week, brought together experts to explore the link between water resilience and biodiversity preservation. This event highlighted the role of landscape-scale thinking, investment, and implementation in restoring natural "sponges" in the landscape, as evidenced by projects like SpongeBoost.

Paul Brotherton, Freshwater Manager at Wetlands International Europe and a SpongeBoost partner participated in a panel discussion titled "Partnerships and Progress - Practical Examples and Reflections on Improving Water Resilience through Partnerships." He introduced the SpongeBoost project, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach involving the European Commission, NGOs, and companies.

Brotherton highlighted the experience gained from various European projects, underscoring the importance of combined efforts to achieve water resilience. He pointed out the contrast between the natural mineral water sector's century-long practice of protecting water sources and the widespread mismanagement of European landscapes, leading to the loss of crucial floodplains and wetlands—our natural water stores.

The natural mineral water sector offers valuable lessons on multi-stakeholder, collaborative approaches. This sector has successfully retained clean and abundant water by working with landowners, such as those in agriculture and forestry, and engaging communities. 

He also discussed the detrimental impact of engineered landscapes designed to drain water quickly, leading to droughts, floods, and fires due to the loss of sponge function. Projects like SpongeBoost are exploring ways to integrate climate and water benefits, demonstrating the multi-benefit nature of sponge solutions. Retaining more water in upper catchments can lower flood peak flows, increase base flows during dry periods, reduce pollutants, and restore endangered habitats like fens and moors.

While the European Commission's recognition of natural sponges is significant, Brotherton stressed that more needs to be done in terms of tools, financing, and incentives. A paradigm shift is essential to create water and climate resilience for society and the economy by harnessing the power of soil and forests. These activities must be demonstrated, prioritized, and incentivized in strategies and plans.

The event showcased the importance of partnerships and practical examples of improving water resilience through collaborative efforts, highlighting the essential steps needed to preserve biodiversity and ensure sustainable water management.

You can find an online recording of the event here.